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ne 4250
ne 8250
ne 4250.25
ne 8250.25
ne 4250.70
ne 8250.70
ne 4250.10
ne 8250.10
Network Enabled
Multi Channel Power Amplifiers
Operating Manual
ASHLY AUDIO INC.
847 Holt Road Webster, NY 14580-9103 Phone: (585) 872-0010
Toll-Free: (800) 828-6308 Fax: (585) 872-0739 www.ashly.com
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
Table Of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2 UNPACKING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
3 THE NE MULTICHANNEL AMP SERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Physical Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Front Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Rear Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Installation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Constant Voltage Models (25V, 70V, and 100V) and High Pass Filters . . 7
4 REMOTE CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
On/Off Remote Standby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Preset Recall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
WR-1 Remote Level Control (WR-1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
WR-2 Remote Preset Recall Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
RD-8C and RW-8C Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
WR-5 Programmable Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
neWR-5 Networked Programmable Remote Control . . . . . . . . . 11
5 PROTEA
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Amplifier Control Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
The DSP Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
6 SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
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SOFTWARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
LIMITED WARRANTY (USA ONLY)
(Other countries please contact your respective distributor or dealer.)
For units purchased in the USA, warranty service for this unit shall be provided by ASHLY AUDIO, INC. in
accordance with the following warranty statement.
ASHLY AUDIO, INC. warrants to the owner of this product that it will be free from defects in workmanship and
materials for a period of FIVE years from the original-date-of-purchase. ASHLY AUDIO INC. will without charge,
repair or replace at its discretion, any defective product or component parts upon prepaid delivery of the product to the
ASHLY AUDIO, INC. factory service department, accompanied with a proof of original-date-of-purchase in the form of
a valid sales receipt. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from
state to state.
EXCLUSIONS: This warranty does not apply in the event of misuse, neglect, or as a result of unauthorized alterations or repairs made to the product. This warranty is void if the serial number is altered, defaced, or removed. ASHLY
AUDIO, INC. reserves the right to make changes in design, or make additions to, or improvements upon, this product
without any obligation to install the same on products previously manufactured.
Any implied warranties, which may arise under the operation of state law, shall be effective only for FIVE years
from the original-date-of-purchase of the product. ASHLY AUDIO, INC. shall be obligated to only correct defects in the
product itself. ASHLY AUDIO, INC. is not liable for any damage or injury, which may result from, or be incidental to,
or a consequence of, such defects. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, or the
exclusion, or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply to
you.
OBTAINING WARRANTY SERVICE:
For warranty service in the United States, please follow this procedure:
1) Return the product to ASHLY AUDIO, INC. freight prepaid, with a written statement describing the defect and
application that the product is used in. ASHLY AUDIO, INC. will examine the product and perform any necessary
service, including replacement of defective parts, at no further cost to you.
2) Ship your product to:
ASHLY AUDIO, INC.
Attention: Service Department
847 Holt Road
Webster, NY 14580-9103
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE COVER. NO USER SER VICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPlIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
THIS APPARATUS MUST BE EARTHED
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE, REPLACE ONLY WITH
SAME TYPE FUSE. REFER REPLACEMENT TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING:
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your purchase of this NE (network enabled) multi channel power amplifier. The NE power amplifiers
combine lightweight, state of the art, high efficiency switching technology with integrated Ethernet control, and use optional
modular expansion cards to provide comprehensive internal DSP processing, AES/EBU input, and networked digital audio
(Cobranet) input. Please read the entire manual to fully understand the features and capabilities of this product.
About Ashly
Ashly Audio was founded in 1974 by a group of recording engineers, concert sound professionals, and electronics
designers. The first products were elaborate custom consoles for friends and associates, but business quickly spread to
new clients and the business grew. The philosophy we established from the very beginning holds true today: to offer only
the highest quality audio tools at an affordable cost to the professional user – ensuring reliability and long life. More
than thirty years later, Ashly remains committed to these principles.
Ashly’s exclusive Five Year, Worry- Free Warranty remains one of the most liberal policies available on any commercial- grade product. The warranty covers every product with the Ashly brand name, and is offered at no extra cost to
you, our customer.
FCC Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
2. UNPACKING
As a part of our system of quality control, every Ashly product is carefully inspected before leaving the factory to
ensure flawless appearance. After unpacking, please inspect for any physical damage. Save the shipping carton and all
packing materials , as they were carefully designed to reduce to minimum the possibility of transportation damage
should the unit again require packing and shipping. In the event that damage has occurred, immediately notify your
dealer so that a written claim to cover the damages can be initiated.
The right to any claim against a public carrier can be forfeited if the carrier is not notified promptly and if the
shipping carton and packing materials are not available for inspection by the carrier. Save all packing materials until the
claim has been settled.
3. THE NE MULTICHANNEL AMP SERIES
Model:
ne4250 - Four Channels, 250W per channel into 4 ohms
ne8250 - Eight Channels, 250W per channel into 4 ohms
ne4250.70 - Four Channels, 70 volt output, 250W per channel
ne8250.70 - Eight Channels, 70 volt output, 250W per channel
ne4250.25 - Four Channels, 25 volt output, 250W per channel (special order)
ne8250.25 - Eight Channels, 25 volt output, 250W per channel (special order)
ne4250.10 - Four Channels, 100 volt output, 250W per channel (special order)
ne8250.10 - Eight Channels, 100 volt output, 250W per channel (special order)
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
The basic NE multichannel amplifiers come in either four channel or eight channel configurations, with Euroblock
input connectors standard or optional XLR connectors. Output connectors are Euroblock only. Standard features on all
models include balanced analog inputs, bridge mono mode per channel pair, full ethernet control using Protea
ware, remote standby for power up, contact closure preset recall, remote control through micropocessor based devices
such as the Ashly WR-5, RD-8C, or other custom control, and DC remote level control using an Ashly WR-1.
Additional hardware options for the NE
1) Internal DSP Processing - With this factory installed option, and using Protea
multichannel power amplifiers include the following:
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(network enabled) software,
each amplifier input channel can be configured with pluggable DSP blocks to have its own dynamics control, gain
functions, graphic and/or parametric EQ, Hi-pass/Lo-pass filters, time delay, metering, and test signal generator. A
mixer section with assignable routing allows any input to drive any or all amplifier outputs. Outputs have the same DSP
functions as inputs, with the addition of a fast, automated crossover setup. Both inputs and outputs can copy/paste their
settings to other channels, or can link with one or more other channels to track their settings.
Presets can be used to store and retrieve global parameters of an entire amplifier’s control surface and DSP section
from a file. In addition, Sub Presets allow for a collection of individual DSP function parameters within and across
multiple channels of an amplifier to be stored and recalled as a set, affecting only those parameters and channels which
have been tagged. Up to 35 presets/subpresets can be stored within the amplifier, and can be recalled in real time from
a computer, WR-5 remote control, or contact closure switches (up to four).
2) AES/EBU Input - Using an optional four or eight channel input card, NE multichannel amplifiers can accept AES/
EBU digital inputs. This protocol allows 2 channels of digital audio to be transmitted over a single cable, thus maintaining a
completely digital signal path until just before the power amplification stage. 48kHz & 96kHz data rates are supported.
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soft-
3) MIC Inputs - In conjunction with the factory installed DSP option, four analog MIC inputs can be installed
(instead of AES/EBU) for full gain, mixing, and dsp processing capabilities using Proteane software.
4) Network Digital Audio (Cobranet) - This option allows the NE multichannel amplifier to be part of a net-
worked audio distribution system. CobraNet is a technology developed and supported by Cirrus Logic (www.cirrus.com).
It is a combination of software, hardware and network protocol which allows distribution of multiple channels of realtime, high quality digital audio over a standard Ethernet Network. For detailed information about CobraNet or its
implementation or installation please visit www.cobranet.info.
Protection
Ashly NE multichannel amplifiers come standard with several protection circuits:
Over Current Protection - Is controlled in the output stage.
Thermal Protection - When the internal temperature is below 40°C the fan runs at its slowest speed. Above 40°C
the speed is increased until it reaches its maximum value. If the temperature exceeds 100°C, the input on that channel is
reduced. If the temperature exceeds 120°C, the power supply is switched off.
Mains Protections – protection within the power supply includes: Inrush Current Limitation during power up,
Mains Over Voltage Detection, and internal Mains Fuse Protection. To protect the Mains fuse against AC overcurrent
due to excessive audio output current, there is a protection scheme controlled in Protea
amplifier front panel which reduces audio output level until the overcurrent condition is no longer present.
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software and indicated on the
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
Physical Description
Each model in the NE Multichannel series is 2RU, and weighs 22 pounds (10kg) or less. The model number is
indicated in the lower left corner of the front panel.
Amplifier Front Panel
1. Mounting Holes – For rack mounting.
2. Power Switch – Switches the unit on or off. Note: The power switch can be disabled from Protea
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Software
3. Status LEDs – Indicate status of: Power, Standby, Protect, Power Switch Disable, and Comm activity
4. Air Inflow Vents – Cool air enters here
5. Channel Controls – Channel control area
6. Signal LEDs – The lowest LED will begin to light when the output voltage reaches -18dBu below rated output.
The Clip LEDs will begin to flash when output voltage is 1/2 volt below the output power supply voltage.
7. Bridge – This LED indicates that the channel pair is selected to BRIDGE mode from the back panel switch, and
that only the odd input channel level control is active
8. Temp and Current LEDs – The Temp LED indicates that the amplifier has reached an excessively high
operating temperature. The Current LED confirms that the amplifier output is delivered to a speaker load.
9. Channel Attenuators – These control the input signal level to the amp, and can be disabled from software.
10. Factory Reset – To reset all internal configurations (including passwords) back to their original factory set-
tings, press and hold this recessed front panel tact switch during power up until all channel LEDs are lit. Upon reset
completion, the LEDs will turn off and the amp will be in normal operating mode.
Amplifier Rear Panel
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
Amplifier Rear Panel
1. Optional Cobranet Card CNM-2 – Installation of this option allows this amplifier to be part of a Cobranet
audio network.
2. Optional AES/EBU Input - Installation of this option allows for AES/EBU digital input.
3. Ethernet Port - This jack offers ethernet control and monitoring of basic amplifier functions using Protea
software.
4. Input Connector - This is used for a three wire (G, +, -) balanced input. Standard connectors are two-piece
euroblock, with XLR connectors optional equipment.
5. Normal/Bridge Switch - This switches the channel pair to Bridge Mode
6. Euroblock Speaker Connectors - Used to connect the speakers
7. Remote Standby - These two contact closure pins are wired to a switch to remotely place the amp in standby.
8. Preset Recall - These four pins (and GND) can be wired to remote contact closure switches to recall up to four
amplifier presets.
9. Data - These four pins can be wired to remote microprocessor based controllers such as the WR-5 or RD-8C.
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10. Remote Level Control - These pins can be wired to remote potentiometers such as the WR-1 for level control
of individual channels
11. AC Inlet - Used for the detachable AC cord.
WARNING: Do not remove or lift the mains connector ground.
Installation
Before connecting to mains power, make sure that the switches and wiring are all set to the configuration needed
for your particular application. Failure to do so could result in damage to the unit or other components in your system.
CAUTION: When mounting or connecting the amplifier, always disconnect it from the mains. Use four screws and
washers when mounting the amplifier to the front rack rails. Rear support is also recommended, especially for mobile or
touring use. To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
Requirements
NE-series multichannel amplifiers have specific physical, electrical and signal requirements for proper operation.
These requirements will vary depending on your specific application, setup, and the settings on the amplifier. When
setting up and testing your system, please take special care to double check all connections and settings. Please refer to
the specifications section of this manual for specific input, output and other figures.
Constant Voltage Models (25V, 70V, and 100V) and High Pass Filters
The 25V, 70V, and 100V amplifiers include internal, factory installed High Pass Filter hardware. This allows for
software selectable filters on each channel that prevent low frequency energy from saturating the core of low cost
speaker tap transformers. Available settings are 80Hz (12dB/oct), 400Hz (6dB/oct), and OFF. The 400Hz setting is
commonly used in paging systems with horn speakers. Note that with the HPF hardware installed, that amplifier can not
have any of the optional AES/EBU input, MIC input, or DSP hardware.
The DSP option can be factory installed in lieu of the HPF hardware, with HPF frequencies set in software to any
value from 20Hz to 20kHz with a slope of 12dB/oct to 48dB/oct and various response options. In order to have AES/
EBU capability in a constant voltage amplifier, the DSP option must be installed.
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
4. REMOTE AMPLIFIER CONTROL
ON/OFF/Remote Standby
The NE multichannel amplifiers have three possible states, OFF, ON, and STANDBY, each with a status LED on
the front panel. Control for these three states is managed by the following:
1) Power Switch - When the power switch is turned off the amplifier is completely of f, UNLESS the power switch
has been disabled from within Protea
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software, in which case the power switch on the amplifier has no effect at all. If
the power switch has been disabled from software, the front panel DISABLE LED will be lit. Even if the AC power is
removed, the amplifier’s internal memory will maintain the <power switch disabled> status until changed again from
Protea
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software. Performing a factory reset will clear and restore all internal amplifier
memory to factory settings.
2) Remote Standby Contact Closure - When these two euroblock pins on the back
of the amplifier are wired to a switch and connected, the amp will go into Standby mode,
whereby the amp is active but not fully powered up. For Remote Standby to work, the
power switch must be turned on OR be disabled through Protea
3) Protea
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Software On/Standby - On/Standby in the Protea
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software.
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PE multichannel amp software functions the
same as the hardware based Remote Standby Contact Closure on the back panel. Clicking on STANDBY places the amp
in standby mode. The On/Standby in software does not override the hardware Remote Standby, they both remian active.
4) Protea Software Power Switch Enable/Disable - Use this software feature to disallow use of the front panel
power switch. If the power switch has been disabled from software, the front panel DISABLE LED will light. The
power switch will remain inactive until enabled again from software, even if the amp is removed from power.
Preset Recall
The four contact closure connections on the back panel euroblock allow for four different amplifier stored presets
to be loaded at the instant a remote switch is closed. Presets are configured from Protea
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software and can include gain
settings, mute status, polarity, as well as the full set of DSP functions if the amp has the DSP option installed.
The NE amplifier will store up to 35 named internal presets, each preset storing control data for all channels and
audio functions. While working in Protea
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software, changes to an individual preset can be saved to the amplifier
using <Preset Options/Save Preset To Protea>, or saved to the PC using <Preset Options/Save To Disk>. Sub Presets
(collections of DSP parameters individually selected from software) are saved in a similar fashion. Individual preset
files use the extension (*.pmc).
The only way to load presets to an amplifier is by using Protea
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software to recall files saved on either the PC or
the amplifier itself, through the use of contact closures, or with a WR-5 wall-mounted remote control. Contact closures
can load presets 1-4 from the amplifier memory using switches wired to the rear panel contact closure euroblock connector.
Caution: A new preset may have dramatically different settings capable of damaging sound system components,
so be careful not to recall the wrong preset while the system is on.
Data Control
The Data Control euroblock connector on the back of the amplifier is used for the Ashly WR-5 programmable zone
controller and Ashly RD-8C (or RW-8C) remote level controller. The Data Control interface provides data and phantom
power for these devices in remote installations, using four conductor wire.
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
WR-1 Remote Level Control - The WR-1 is a dual potentiometer remote volume control designed to fit in a standard
wall electrical box, and is wired to the amplifier (with or without DSP installed) back panel Euroblock connector labeled
“Remote Level Control” using four conductor wire. If wiring a custom potentiometer assembly other than the WR-1, connect
+5V from the Remote Level Control Euroblock connector to the potentiometer’s CW pin, GND to the CCW pin, and the channel
under control to the wiper. Do not connect the WR-1 remote level control ground to any other external grounds.
WR-2 Remote Preset Recall Switches - The WR-2 al-
lows selection of one of four presets via interlocking pushbutton
switches. Each pushbutton switch can be connected to a Preset
Recall Pin on the back panel of the amplifier. The terminal numbers correspond to the first 4 Preset Memory locations in the
controlled amplifier. Pressing a button will select the corresponding preset. Windows are provided by each switch for a usergenerated label.
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
RD-8C or RW-8C Remote Control - The RD-8C and
RW-8C are remote level controllers which are connected to the
amplifier’s Data Port, and are phantom powered from the amplifier. They can only be used in NE amplifiers which have
DSP installed, and are used in conjunction with the “Remote
Gain” pluggable DSP tool placed in an input or output in software.
Maximum cable length is 1000 ft using #24 gauge twisted
pair. The RD-8C is a desktop controller, while the RW-8C is
electronically the same but mounts as a wall plate using a standard North American 4-gang electrical box and connects using
a Euroblock.. There are eight channels and a master, each with
a fader control and an on/off button. Note: Only one RD-8C
can be used per amplifier, and use of an RD-8C will exclude
the use of the data port for a WR-5. One or the other remote
control device may be connected, but not both
WR-5 Programmable Remote Control - The WR-5 is a programmable button
remote control which mounts into a standard
North America electrical wall box and connects to an amplifier data port using four
conductor wire. Maximum cable length is
1000 ft using #24 gauge twisted pair. A
decora cover plate (not included) can be purchased at hardware stores to cover the WR5 electrical box and satisfy the aesthetic
needs of the installation. The WR-5 is phantom powered from the amplifier. Up to four
different WR-5 remotes can be wired in series, and more can be added by using an Ashly
RPS-18 remote power supply.
WR-5 buttons are programmed from Protea
number in its WR-5 device window. Each button has a status LED. Controlled functions include preset recall/scroll, and in
amplifiers with DSP installed, functions include mute, zone source selection, individual channel and matrix point level control.
Note: To use the WR-5 as a remote level control, a (ne)WR-5 Remote Gain tool must be placed in one of the DSP processing
blocks of the channels(s) to be controlled. presuming that amplifier has DSP installed. A windowed mylar pocket is available
to insert custom function button labels.
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software after the WR-5 is wired to an amplifier and assigned a unique ID
The Ashly RPS-18 remote power supply is required when more than four WR-5 remotes are connected to one amplifier.
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
neWR-5 Networked Programmable Remote Control - The neWR-5 remote control is a networked version of the WR-
5, using Ethernet instead of the Data Port to communicate with the amplifier. Connecting and powering the neWR-5 is done
using Cat-5 Ethernet cable and an IEEE 802.3af Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch, hub, or in-line PoE injector. If PoE is
unavailable, the Ashly RPS-18 (sold separately) is a 15-48VDC power supply capable of at least 2 watts per neWR-5 and can be
hard wired to the back of the neWR-5. PoE current draw is 38mA @48VDC and 80mA@15VDC. A decora cover plate (not
included) can be purchased at hardware stores to cover the neWR-5 electrical box and satisfy the aesthetic needs of the installation.
The neWR-5 appears in the Proteane software device menu tree and must be assigned, within its neWR-5 device window ,
to a specific amplifier under control. The neWR-5 has six programmable function buttons which can light up green, red, or
amber to display status. Further information on LED status is found in the neWR-5 owner’s manual. T o the right of the function
buttons is a pocket in the mylar overlay for a printed function label to be inserted. The two other buttons are used to adjust
function parameters such as gain or preset number, and are indicated by the LED display. As with the WR-5, neWR-5 functions
are limited without DSP installed in the amplifier . Note: To use the neWR-5 as a remote level contr ol, a (ne)WR-5 Remote Gain
tool must be placed in one of the DSP processing blocks of the channels(s) to be controlled. presuming that amplifier has DSP
installed.
There is a hard-wired Lock-Out feature on the neWR-5, where the closing of a switch wired to the lockout Euroblock
renders all buttons inactive.
INA-1 Inline RS-232 Adapter - The amplifier Data Port uses a proprietary serial communications protocol which can be
converted to RS-232 using the Ashly INA-1 RS-232 adapter. This allows the use of custom designed third party RS-232
controllers.
5. PROTEAne SOFTWARE
Proteane software offers a comprehensive suite of tools for controlling Ashly NE multichannel amplifiers as well
as other Ashly products. The standard NE multichannel amplifiers allow for ethernet control and monitoring of power
functions, level, mute, and polarity. With the DSP option installed, software control and monitoring of major audio
functions can be custom configured on a per channel basis, as well as through linked channels. More in depth discussion
of software features can be found in the Protea
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software online help.
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
The base amplifier comes with software provisions for an audio control surface, password protected security functions, and network property management. Furthermore, Link Group Configuration and Power On Delay are set up under
the Device Options menu tab. In addition, provisions for implementing DSP modes, AES/EBU Inputs, and Cobranet
inputs are made available, presuming the necessary hardware has been installed in the amplifier. Proteane software will
auto-detect the installed amplifier hardware options and display the resultant menu items as soon as it recognizes the
amp on the network.
Link Group Configuration - Linking allows the controls for multiple signal processing function “blocks” to track
each other. For example - if two graphic equalizers are “linked”, any change made to a control within either of the
equalizers will result in an identical change to the other. Blocks may be linked within a Protea
multiple devices (assuming that devices are networked). Linking of multiple devices is managed through LINK GROUPS.
Each Protea
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device will support up to eight Link Groups. DSP function “blocks” may be assigned to these groups
though Proteane Software. Once assigned to a group all LIKE functions within the group will track parameter changes.
However more than one function type may be assigned to a group. Each LINK GROUP may be assigned a name by the
user, and also be assigned a color for easy identification. For further details about linking, see the online help in Protea
Software.
Preset Options - The Preset Options tab in the main amplifier window allows amplifier setups to be saved to and
recalled from the amplifier as well as a computer. Presets are a snapshot of all current settings on a given amplifier.
Sub Presets - Sub Presets are user defined groups of DSP functions within one channel or across multiple chan-
nels. Sub Presets allow the end user to instantly recall a pre-determined set of DSP parameters to quickly address
changing environmental conditions, without the risk of making undesirable or irrecoverable system changes.
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device, or across
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The Amplifier Control Surface T ab
This is the main user interface for the NE multichannel amplifier. Key features of this window include:
1) Channel/Offset Link Group Faders - The level control provides up to 40dB of analog input attenuation. More
than 40dB of cumulative attenuation causes the channel to mute. If a channel has been assigned to an offset link
group, acolored triangular marker appears on the left side of the fader graticule for secondary level control of
all channels in that group. The main level control faders can not be linked to a group.
2) Mute button - This mutes the input channel
3) Polarity button - This inverts the phase of the input channel
4) Offset link group - Up to eight groups are available for the purpose of linking similar function parameters
across multiple channels. In addition to the control surface secondary level control (not the main fader), most
DSP functions have a link group check box in their work window to assign a specific parameter to one of the
eight link groups if desired. Link groups can be renamed by clicking on any group name and entering the new
name then pressing <enter> on the keyboard.
5) Attenuators - These two dials indicate the physical position of hardware controls on either the amp front panel
or the remote level control (if present). Note that these will display the position of attenuators even when
DISABLED in software.
6) Total Attenuation - This indicates the total amount of attenuation being applied to the channel. This is the sum
of the following attenuators: main fader, offset link group attenuation, front panel and remote attenuators (if
enabled).
7) Meters - Input and Output meters display the real time activity per channel, in dB below rated output. Also, the
amplifier’s operating temperature and output current are shown. Output current shows that the amplifier
channel is actually delivering output to a connected speaker load.
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
The Amplifier DSP T ab
If the amplifier has DSP installed, the DSP tab automatically appears. The DSP tab includes an input side and an output
side, with a cross linking matrix mixer in between. Key features of the DSP window include:
Input Channel Number - Right click on this to bring up Clear, Copy/Paste, Link, and Sub Preset for that input channel.
Input Channel Name - The user can name each input channel.
Input Mute Button - Mutes the input.
Pluggable DSP Tools - Six blocks are available on both inputs and outputs for custom configuration of pluggable DSP
processing blocks. Total DSP usage for the four input and output channels is indicated as a percentage at the bottom of each
input section in the DSP tab. Increasing the number and complexity of applied DSP tools increases the DSP usage. Note: The
total DSP usage per group of four channels is limited, and cannot exceed 100%. Available DSP tools include:
1) Dynamics controls - Brick W all Limiter , Compressor , Autoleveler, Ducker, Noise Gate
2) Gain functions - Gain, Gain with VCA, RD-8C Remote Control Gain, neWR-5 Remote Control Gain
3) Equalization - Graphic Equalizer, 10/6/4/2 Band Parametric Equalizers
4) Crossover functions - Four Way, Three Way, and Two Way Crossovers are available on outputs only.
HPF and LPF filters are available on both inputs and outputs.
5) Delay - Speaker Delay at 48kHz sampling rate is 256mS, and Delay is 682mS. At 96kHz, 128mS and 341ms.
6) Metering - -60dBu to +20dBu display
7) Signal Generator - Pink noise, White Noise, Sine Wave
Extensive online help information is available for all DSP blocks within the software. From within any DSP tool, simply
press <F1> on the keyboard for online help for that tool. Also look in the Protea
Contents/Protea NE Products/PE Multichannel Amplifiers/DSP Control for details of all DSP functions.
Input/Output Matrix Router - Any input can be routed to any or all outputs. Click and drag from the input to output to
assign routing. For faster routing of a single input or output to multiple channels, highlight its node and then press Ctrl+Click
over the desired nodes to connect to. T o delete a route or clear the matrix, right click on the routing line or node. Also, right click
anywhere in the matrix area to bring up a menu of common routing choices.
Output Mute Button - Mutes the output.
Output Channel Name - The user can name each output channel.
Output Channel Number - Right click on this to bring up Clear, Copy, Link, and Sub Preset functions for that output.
ne
Software Help Menu/Contents and Index/
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
6. SPECIFICATIONS
General Power Amplifier Specifications 0dBu = 0.775V rms
Base Model 4250 8250
120VAC 230VAC 120VAC 230VAC
Continuous Average Power Output Per Channel
Low Z models, Stereo Mode, all channels driven
8
Ω
, 20Hz-20kHz 1%THD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150W 150W 150W 150W
Ω
, 20Hz-20kHz 1%THD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250W 250W 250W 250W
4
Low Z models, Bridge Mode, all channels driven
8Ω, 20Hz-20kHz 1%THD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .500W 500W 500W 500W
25V, 70V, 100V distributed output models,
20Hz-20kHz 1%THD, per channel . . . . . . . . . . .250W 250W 250W 250W
Line Current Draw (all channels driven)
Line Current, Standby mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .190mA 95mA 290mA 145mA
Line Current, Idle (no signal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .540mA 270mA 565mA 283mA
Line Current, Typical (1/8 power pink noise) . . . . .2.85A 1.43A 5.00A 2.50A
Line Current, Maximum (1/3 power sine wave) . . .6.00A 3.00A 11.0A 5.50A
Thermal Dissipation (all channels driven)
BTU/hr, Standby mode, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46.7 46.7 63.8 63.8
BTU/hr, Idle (no signal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123 123 187 187
BTU/hr, Typ (1/8 power pink noise) . . . . . . . . . . . .341 341 700 700
BTU/hr, Max (1/3 power sine wave) . . . . . . . . . . . .378 378 775 775
Signal to Noise (20Hz-20KHz, unweighted) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . >105dB
Distortion (SMPTE, typical) - 8 ohm load, 10dB below rated power: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . <0.5%
Distortion (THD-N, typical) - 8 ohm load, 10dB below rated power, 20Hz-20kHz: . . . . . <0.5%
Frequency Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Hz-20kHz, +/-1dB
Damping Factor (8 ohm load, <1kHz) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . >250
Input Impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20K Ohm, balanced
Maximum Input Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +21dB
Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . temperature dependent speed-controlled axial fan
Control Network . . . . . . . onboard, compatible with standard 100MB Ethernet hardware
Front Panel Indicators . . per channel: Clip/Mute, -6dB, -12dB, -18dB, Temp, Current, Bridge (per pair)
overall: Power, Standby, Protect, Power Switch Disable, Comm
Control Surface and Amp LEDs: Level meters are dB below RATED output
Attenuators: per channel: front panel, software, offset link group, and r emote
Input Connections . . . . . Euroblock
Output Connections . . . . Euroblock
Amplifier Protection inrush current limitation, temperature monitoring, output over-current protection, mains fuses
Power Cable Connector 15A Edison
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . 19”W x 3.5”H x 15.5”D (483 x 89 x 394mm)
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 lbs (9.53kg)
Environmental: . . . . . . . . 40-120 deg. F, (4-49 deg, C) noncondensing
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
DSP Specifications
Input: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Active Balanced, 10 kohms
Max Input Level: . . . . . . . . +21 dBu
Dynamics
Brick Wall Limiter
Threshold: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -20dBu to +20dBu
Ratio: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . infinite
Attack: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.2ms/dB to 50 ms/dB
Release: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5ms/dB to 1000ms/dB
Compressor
Threshold: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -20dBu to +20dBu
Ratio: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.2:1 to infinite
Attack: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.2 to 50ms
Release: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5ms/dB to 1000ms/dB
Detector: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Peak/Average
Autoleveler
Target Level: . . . . . . . . . . . . -40dBu to +20dBu
Action: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . gentle, normal, aggressive, user
defined
Maximum Gain: . . . . . . . . . 0dB to +15dB
Ratio: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.2:1 to 10:1
Threshold Below Target: . . -30dB to 0dB
Gain Increase Rate: . . . . . . 5ms/dB to 1000ms/dB
Hold Time: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-6 sec
Ducker
Ducking Type: . . . . . . . . . . . high/low priority, trigger, filibuster,
ducked program
Trigger Threshold: -80dBu to +20 dBu
Ducking Release: . . . . . . . . 5ms/dB to 1000ms/dB
Ducking Depth: . . . . . . . . . 0dB to -30dB
Gate
Threshold: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -80dBu to +20dBu
Range: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . off, 100dB to 0dB
Attack: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.2ms/dB to 50 ms/dB
Release: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5ms/dB to 1000ms/dB
Hi/Low Shelf 6/12 dB
Frequency: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Hz-20kHz
Level: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -15dB to +15dB
All Pass
Frequency 20Hz-20kHz
Variable Q HP/LP
Frequency: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Hz-20kHz
Q Value: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.047 to 0.267
Notch/Bandpass
Frequency: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Hz-20kHz
Q Value: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92.436 to 0.267
Crossover
2 Way, 3 Way, 4 Way Crossover
High Pass/Low Pass Filters
Filter Types:
Bessel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12/18/24/48 dB/oct
Butterworth: . . . . . . . . . . . . 12/18/24/48 dB/oct
Linkwitz: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12/24/48 dB/oct
Frequency: . . . . . . . . . . . . . off, 20Hz-20KHz
Delay
@ 48kHz Sampling Rate
Base Delay: . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-256ms
Extra Delay: . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-682 ms
@ 96kHz Sampling Rate
Base Delay: . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-128ms
Extra Delay: . . . . . . . . . . . . 0-341 ms
Tools
Audio Meter
Range: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -60dBu to +20dBu
Increments: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1dB
Peak Hold Indicator: . . . . . yes
Signal Generator: . . . . . . . . pink noise, white noise, sine wave
Sine Wave Frequency: . . . . 20Hz-12kHz
Signal Level: . . . . . . . . . . . . off, -50dBu to +20dBu
Gain
Gain: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . off, -50dB to +12dB
Gain w/VCA: . . . . . . . . . . . off, -50dB to +12dB
WR-5 Remote Gain: . . . . . . off, -50dB to +12dB
Equalization
31 Band Graphic
Filter Type: . . . . . . . . . . . . . constant Q or proportional
Bandwidth: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.499oct to 0.25oct
2, 4, 6, or 10 Band Parametric
Filter Types
Parametric:
Frequency: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-20kHz
Level: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -30dB to +15dB
Q Value: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.016oct to 4oct
Cross Point Mixer
Gain: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Off., -50 to +12dB, 0.5dB increments
with Mute
Linking
All functions can be linked to 1 of 8 link groups
Processors
Input A/D: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 bit (Burr Brown PCM4204)
Output D/A: . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 bit (Burr Brown PCM4104)
DSP Processors: . . . . . . . . . 32-bit floating point (Sharc ADSP-
21262)
Sample Rates: . . . . . . . . . . . 48kHz, 96kHz
Propagation Delay @ 48kHz: . . . . . . 1.42 ms
Propagation Delay @ 96kHz: . . . . . . 0.71 ms
AES/EBU Digital Audio Input
Type: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 ohm transformer balanced XLR
Sample Rates: . . . . . . . . . . . 48kHz, 96kHz
Max Cable Length: . . . . . . . 100 meters
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Operating Manual - NE Multi Channel Power Amplifier
ASHLY AUDIO INC. 847 Holt Road Webster, NY 14580
Phone: (585) 872-0010 Fax: (585) 872-0739
© 2010 by Ashly Audio Corporation. All rights reserved worldwide.
Toll Free (800) 828-6308 www.ashly.com
Printed in USA 1110 R4
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